Somewhere in the cosmos, on a planet called Earth.
The golden light of morning slipped through the curtains of Rachel Ardent's bedroom, painting the walls in soft amber. The room itself was a quiet testament to her family's affluence—elegant furniture, delicate ornaments, and a polished wooden dresser topped with neatly arranged books and a single, framed portrait of her father.
Rachel's eyes fluttered open, meeting the hush of her sanctuary. She sat up, the silken sheets falling away from her shoulders, and let her gaze linger on the portrait. Cedric Ardent's eyes, captured forever in the photograph, seemed to watch over her—a reminder of the legacy she was meant to inherit.
She brushed a lock of white hair behind her ear, her ocean-blue eyes reflecting a flicker of resolve. "Father… today's the day. The day I find out if I have what it takes to follow the path you once walked."
Her voice was barely a whisper, swallowed by the vastness of her room. There was a faint smile on her lips, but her expression remained cool, composed—just as it always was.
Cedric Ardent. The name echoed in the halls of power, whispered in reverence by those who remembered. He had been a hero, a legend among awakeners, and his sacrifice had elevated the Ardent name to a pedestal few could dream of reaching. Rachel carried that weight every day—a mixture of pride and the crushing burden of expectation.
She rose and stretched, then slipped into the ensuite bathroom. The gentle patter of water accompanied her thoughts as she showered, the steam curling around her like a cocoon. Today was her last day of school—and the day she would face her awakening. Everything would change, one way or another.
She dressed in her uniform: a crisp white blouse, a navy skirt, and the silver Ardent family brooch pinned to her collar. She brushed her long hair until it gleamed, then paused before the mirror, studying her reflection. Her posture straightened, her eyes hardened. She was ready—or at least, she needed to appear so.
The apartment was one of many her family owned—a blend of modern luxury and timeless elegance, perched high above the city's bustle. Rachel's footsteps echoed down the marble staircase, each one measured and precise.
At the entrance, Alfred, the family's butler, waited beside a sleek black car. He bowed as she approached. "Good morning, Lady Rachel."
"Morning, Alfred," she replied, her tone polite but distant.
A familiar creak of hinges drew her attention. She turned to see Elena—her childhood friend—emerge, her chestnut hair tied in a loose ponytail, her smile brightening the morning.
"About time, Elena," Rachel said, feigning impatience.
Elena rolled her eyes, grinning. "Oh, please. You know mornings aren't my thing. It's a miracle I'm even awake."
Rachel allowed herself the smallest of smirks. "Miracle or not, you're late."
Elena shrugged, slinging her bag over her shoulder. "It's not like the ceremony will start without us. Besides, today's a big day for you. Aren't you nervous?"
Rachel's gaze turned forward, her features unreadable. "Nervous? Maybe. But I won't let it show."
Elena nudged her gently. "Of course you wouldn't. That's so you."
Alfred opened the car door for them, and they slid into the plush interior. The city outside was already alive—cars and hover vehicles zipped through the streets, skyscrapers gleamed in the sunlight, and a massive portal shimmered in the city's heart, its swirling energy casting a faint glow.
Rachel watched the portal as they passed. "Convenient as they are, I've always found portals unsettling."
Elena nodded. "Same. But we're close enough to walk, really."
The car wound its way through the city, drawing closer to the prestigious academy. The campus was a sprawl of modern buildings and manicured lawns, banners fluttering in the breeze, the academy's emblem displayed with pride.
Today, the grounds were more vibrant than ever. Students in immaculate uniforms clustered in groups, their excitement electric. Families and dignitaries mingled, anticipation thick in the air. This was the day—the day sixteen-year-olds would awaken, their futures forever changed.
As Alfred opened the door, Rachel stepped out, her presence commanding attention. Conversations stilled; eyes turned. Whispers followed her like a shadow.
"Wow, it's Rachel Ardent…"
"She looks even more stunning today."
"I bet she'll awaken something incredible. She's perfect."
Rachel's gaze swept the crowd, her face impassive. She heard their words, felt their stares—the admiration, the envy, the expectations. She had lived with it all her life.
To them, I'm just a pretty face, a symbol of wealth, or Cedric Ardent's daughter. No one cares about who I really am. Do I even know who I am?
Elena, ever perceptive, leaned in and whispered, "Looks like you're the star of the day, as usual."
Rachel's lips twitched, almost a smile. "Let's just get this over with."
Together, they walked towards the academy's grand entrance, the future waiting—uncertain, daunting, and filled with possibilities.